The GRAD Act (Growing Reputable Academic Departments Act) expands federal grant eligibility for graduate education programs at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). The bill amends the Higher Education Act to allow certain HBCUs and PBIs that offer master's degree programs—but weren't previously listed in the law—to qualify for federal grant funding. The legislation increases funding flexibility by removing specific dollar caps ($9 million for HBCUs and $2.5 million for PBIs) and allowing remaining grant funds to be distributed after other allocations are made. This change primarily affects historically underserved institutions seeking to expand their graduate education offerings and the students who attend them. The bill was introduced in February 2026 with bipartisan support and referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
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